Cardiff City have plenty to contend with at St James' Park on Saturday.

Even putting aside Newcastle United's seven consecutive victories, 50,000 fervent Geordies and Champions League winning manager, the Toon have considerable strength, not least in the striking department where they welcome back the Championship top scorer Dwight Gayle .

For Bluebirds boss Neil Warnock, who admitted when he took the job that he was looking forward to this particular fixture, it presents a major challenge.

"(Assistant manager) Ronnie Jepson watched them demolish Preston two weeks ago and he said to me they're the best squad he's ever seen in the Championship!"

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"That's the bad news," he added. "The good news is that they can only play 11 against us. We've got to prepare for anything they throw at us and we know we'll be under the cosh at times.

"But we believe we can cause them problems but we need everybody to be on top of their game."

It is an admission that perhaps shifts the pressure onto the hosts. And after Benitez revealed his kingpin striker Gayle was fit again, Warnock praised the abilities of his former Crystal Palace player.

"He's the best finisher I've ever had," Warnock said. "But we just couldn't find the system for him. He's always wanted to be loved and Rafa has loved him and encouraged him.

"He comes alive in the 18 yard box and he would get into anybody's team. He looks a far more complete player than anything I've seen."

Warnock added: "We know they've brushed aside most teams over the last few weeks and we'll have to start well even with the crowd behind them and a hectic start. But I think the lads are ready for it. They're relishing the challenge.

"It's a tremendous occasion to go to St James' Park. The fans are possibly the best fans in the country and you've got to give Benitez credit. He thinks it's a special club and it is.

"And the Championship isn't easy either. They've got good Championship players who could make that step up."